An addiction to drugs or alcohol can impact every aspect of your life. Substance use disorder (SUD) is a complex condition that can be very challenging to overcome. Most people require intensive, comprehensive treatment and continuing support to prevent relapse.
Relapse prevention therapy can help people address the roots of their substance abuse. This essential aspect of addiction treatment can help people develop skills to manage high-risk situations without relapsing.
This article will explore how relapse prevention therapy can support long-term addiction recovery. You will learn:
- How relapse prevention therapy works
- The core concepts of this therapy
- Where to find treatment and recovery support
If you or someone you love struggles with substance abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Contact the intake team at New Jersey Behavioral Health to learn about our mental health and addiction treatment programs.
What is Relapse Prevention Therapy?
There are several types of relapse prevention therapy. Some approaches use the principles of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or other behavioral therapies. Mindfulness-based relapse prevention therapy (MBRT) teaches mindfulness techniques that can help people prevent relapse.
Generally, relapse prevention therapy helps people identify the triggers and warning signs that can lead to relapse. Then, people create a relapse prevention plan and learn skills to help them manage them.
Mindfulness-based relapse prevention programs focus on helping people develop more awareness of their emotions and physical sensations. People practice mindful meditation and other techniques. This can increase distress tolerance, reduce stress, and stay grounded in the present moment.
The ultimate goal of a relapse prevention therapy program is to help people reduce the risk of relapse. This form of therapy can be a valuable aspect of any comprehensive treatment program.
What are the Core Concepts of Relapse Prevention Therapy?
Relapse prevention therapy focuses on helping people identify triggers. It teaches people to recognize the stages of relapse and how to cope with challenges without relapsing. Here is an overview of what people learn during relapse prevention therapy programs.
The cost and benefit of substance abuse
One of the first steps of relapse prevention is understanding the roots of substance abuse. People work with a licensed therapist to explore how they benefit from abusing drugs or alcohol–and what they have to lose.
Stages of relapse
People must learn to identify the three stages of relapse. Recognizing the signs of an emotional, mental, and physical relapse can help people seek treatment.
Triggers
Triggers are internal or external stimuli that may lead to cravings and relapse. Internal stimuli can include negative emotions, low self-esteem, and intrusive thoughts. External stimuli may include people, places, dates, or events. Identifying triggers and learning how to cope with them can reduce the risk of relapse.
Coping skills
Knowing your triggers may help you avoid some of them. However, some triggers may be unexpected or unavoidable. It’s crucial to develop new coping skills to use when facing triggers. These might include:
- Healthy distractions
- Breathing exercises
- Attending support groups
- Using mindfulness techniques
- Leaning on social support systems, including supportive friends and family members
Healthy coping skills can help people face challenges and triggers more confidently.
Self-care
Meaningful self-care means taking care of your body, mind, and spirit. Developing healthy habits may include:
- Exercising regularly
- Eating nutritious foods
- Prioritizing sleep
- Taking breaks
- Staying socially active
- Finding purpose, such as volunteering for a cause you care about, engaging in a hobby, or learning new skills
Taking care of your whole self can reduce stress, increase self-esteem, and improve your overall well-being. It can help you feel your best as you navigate addiction recovery.
In relapse prevention therapy, people work with a licensed mental health therapist to address the roots of their substance abuse. They understand their triggers, learn new skills, and make realistic relapse prevention plans. This therapy is an essential aspect of comprehensive addiction treatment programs.
How Does Relapse Prevention Therapy Work?
Most people in addiction recovery will experience at least one relapse during their recovery journey. Experts in addiction medicine believe relapse rates for those SUD may be as high as 90%.
While it is possible to recover and move forward after a relapse, relapsing can feel like a significant setback. A relapse can be discouraging or make people second-guess their ability to recover.
Learning to prevent relapse is critical. Relapse prevention therapy can help people improve functioning and reduce the risk of relapse. People may participate in a relapse prevention therapy program before, during, or after rehab.
Many comprehensive inpatient and outpatient addiction treatments offer relapse prevention education and therapy. People may begin this type of therapy during rehab and then continue as part of their aftercare plan.
Find Treatment and Support Now
If you or someone you love struggles with substance abuse or addiction, help is available at New Jersey Behavioral Health. Contact our intake specialists to learn about our programs or to schedule an intake assessment.